Set up an interview with someone who is in a position you want to have in the future (this cannot be a friend or relative, or another student). The position should be similar to the job ad you used previously. TIP: set the meeting date for two weeks out.
Research and summarize (not copy) the following prior to the meeting:
Research this person (use LinkedIn, Company website, news reports, etc.)
Research the company – key items/issues reported in the news, social media, etc.
Research the industry –current trends and news (competition, customers, laws)
Locate 2 people on LinkedIn in similar jobs. Identify 2-4 local or professional associations that they belong to that appear related to this job. Look at each organization’s website and identify whom it serves, for what purposes, how to join, and if students can attend events.
Develop your interview questions using your research. YOU are interviewing them – but you cannot be so ignorant about the job, company, industry. Your questions reflect your professionalism as well as your interest in this career path.
Interview the person and then follow up. NOTE: Before the interview concludes, ask the individual to suggest two other people whom you should speak with to learn more about the career/job. Get contact information for those two people.
Send a thank you note by postal mail 1-2 days after the interview.
Follow up and contact the two people who were recommended to you.
Write your 2 page single-spaced memo such that you present insights and knowledge you gained. Do not provide a transcript! Be sure to note the person, role, company, how you met the individual, and the names of the two people that were recommended to you.